Water Quality Questions To Ask Before Buying A Home
Buying a new home is a major investment, so you’ll want to make sure that the new home is somewhere you’ll feel safe and comfortable living. One important component of this is making sure the water in your new home is safe to drink, shower, and clean with. Here are some key questions to ask before moving into a new home.
What is the water source for this home?
The most important thing to know is where your water is actually coming from. If you’re in an urban or suburban environment, chances are your water is coming from a municipal source. Local governments are required by the FDA and other agencies to maintain their water sources and treat them for certain bacteria and contaminants. Because municipal water is already treated, it is usually safe to drink. However, there can still be issues with hard water leaving deposits.
Some water treatment systems also leave traces of cleaning chemicals, which can cause their own issues as well. There are also properties that source their water from a local well. Well water is not regulated, which means that you will need to treat the water on your own. Treating your water ensures that there are no contaminants and that the water smells and tastes normal.
What are common water problems in this area?
Every city or town has its own unique water problems. If you’re moving to a new city, it’s worth asking if there are any specific water problems to watch out for in the area. For example, some cities struggle with old pipe systems. As these systems corrode and wear down over time, they can leave traces of contaminants in the water after it has been treated. Understanding local water problems will help you determine if you need to treat your water at home.
How can I get more information about my water source?
Municipalities are required to put out local water reports each year. Before purchasing a home, you’ll want to take a look at the most recent water reports to determine what’s actually in your water.
It’s also important to get a water test when moving into a new home. This is particularly important if you live on a property with well water, as you won’t have any local water reports to rely on. Ask where you can get a reliable local water test before moving.
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